Project White Truck: 2010 Dodge Ram 3500

Our project white truck, a ’10 Ram 3500, is quickly earning its stripes as the go-to tool for tow and go. Six months ago we took delivery of this basic brute loaded with the 6.7L Cummins diesel and the six-speed manual transmission, a combo unmatched by other OEMs (Mar. ’11). The truck is as basic as can bevinyl seats and floors, steel wheels, painted bumpersand because of that we like it even more.

In the April issue we did a few upgrades such as rubber floor mats and canvas/denim seat covers from Mopar to protect that new car smell. We also added a leveling kit and taller BFGoodrich tires for off-road angles and traction. Last month a Caravan Camper was fitted on the back to make the truck the perfect camping, hunting, and exploring machine (plus we enjoy being confused for the forest service or a plumber).

The White Truck is in no way finished, but after this update it will exit the stage for a few months since we’re actually quite happy with the current setup and want to get out and use it more. The Ram pulls trailers, explores backroads, and is comfortable enough to live out of for days on end, while still just a simple work truck.

The 6.7L Diesel is a great engine, but not without costs. The price of diesel is pushing $3.85 a gallon around here, and when mileage ranges from 11 to 18 mpg, those dollars add up. The Cummins also requires approximately 3 gallons of engine oil every 7,500 miles. We like using Rotella 15W-40; we may need to get a barrelful.